Post Office to Default on $5 Billion Payment

   Many laughed when we wrote a year ago that you will soon be paying $1 per stamp at the post office!

   After intentionally delaying lay-offs, closures, and incompetently failing tp cut costs in any measurable way, the US Postal Service reportedly will default on its $5 Billion payment to Congress this week.

   If you go the the American Postal Workers Union (APWU) website its easy to see why. The Union and management at the Postal Service is either unwilling or totally incompetent in dealing with the facts.

What is This?

What is this a picture of ?
Answer tomorrow August 1, 2012

Teen Injured While Vandalizing High School

       On July 27, 2012 around 2:30 AM Calaveras County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched to Calaveras High School for medical aid.

   Upon arrival they encountered six juveniles between the ages of 16 and 17, two of them being a 16 and 17 year old males, allegedly intoxicated (both from Valley Springs).

Dorrington Man Arrested

    Calaveras County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched to the intersection of Hope Court and Pope Street in San Andreas as a result of multiple 911 calls regarding a physical fight in the intersection.

     Upon arrival, the deputies found that the involved parties had fled the scene.  The deputies obtained additional information that led them to the alleged victim Steven Maldonado (46) of San Andreas.

   Maldonado had self-transported to Mark Twain Hospital for injuries sustained during the fight.  He suffered injuries to his nose and jaw

Murphys Woman Arrested

     Rachelle Lynn Hogue of Butte Mountain Rd. in Murphys was arrested on July 30, 2012 for allegedly Inflicting Injury on a Spouse or Cohabitant, a felony.

   Hogue was booked at the Calaveras County Jail by a Sheriff's Deputy.

Battery Reported in West Point

  A battery was alleged in a complaint to the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office on July 30, 2012, during an altercation between an employee and employer.

   This apparently took place at Skull Flat Road and Skull Springs Road in West Point. A deputy responded and took the report.

   No indication of an arrest was made at that time.

Place on the Water

  A complaint came into the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office that someone has built some type of dwelling at Big Trees Rd and Creekview Drive in Murphys, where many people access the creek.

   Apparently a lot of broken glass and  trash is thrown around the area, acording to the complainant.

   The log says that No Report was Taken. WHY?

    Wouldn't we all like a place on the water?

Explosion in Mailbox

  A resident on Oakridge Road in Valley Springs has reported on July 30, 2012, that something like fireworks or an  explosive was set off inside their mailbox, and damaged it.

   The Calaveras County Sheriff's Office took the report and are investigating.

  

Letter to the Editor; Public Access Complaint

  Dear Editor:

   As you know, I am a regular viewer of Channel 9, Calaveras County's Public Access TV station for government meetings.

   I have been one of your constant complainers over the last couple of years that someone down at Public Access either doesn't know what they are doing or they intentionally screw things up.

The North Fire Southeast of Ukiah

UPDATE: 
   The North Fire is now 420 acres and 100% contained as of 8 PM July 30, 2012.
 UPDATE:
   The North  Fire near Ukiah  is now 400 acres and 55% contained as of 11 AM on Sunday, July 29, 2012. 


   One injury has been caused by this fire. 2 Air tankers and over 500 firefighters are now fighting this fire.


   Two roads and the BLM recreation area outside Ukiah are closed due to the fire.
****
   Firefighters are battling a 30 acre fire off Mill Creek Rd near Cow Mountain, southeast of Ukiah in Mendocino County which was reported 30 minutes ago, July 28, 2012 at 2:45 PM.


   Named the North Fire CalFire is trying to contain it before it spreads. We will keep you updated.

Calaveras County Women's Network Meets

   The Calaveras County Women's Network (CCWN) meets next on August 28, 2012, This is a dinner meeting at Ironstone Vineyards and the cost is $23 for members and $25 for non-members.

    The meeting begins at 5:30 PM for socializing and networking, There is a special speaker at each meeting.

   Make your reservation by August 22, 2012 by calling Sharon at 559-2673.

Death Investigation by City of Angels Camp

   Shortly after midnight on July 24, 2012, a police officer was flagged down in the 1200 block of S. Main Street, regarding a male subject that was injured.

    Several subjects on scene reported that they stopped to assist a male subject that reportedly fell and struck his head on the sidewalk.

Country Cliff's Burglarized Again

      Again over the weekend, Country Cliff's restaurant in San Andreas was broken into and robbed.

     The Calaveras County Sheriff's Office responded to a report of a window broken and the cash register taken.

    Cliff Edson, owner of Country Cliff's has been to the Board of Supervisors many times, telling them that crime in rampant in San Andreas, and of his previous burglaries.

    Edson is running for Supervisor of District 1, in a runoff with the incumbent Gary Tofanelli, and feels they need more Sheriff's deputies.

2 go to Hospital After Collision and Rollover

      Jinrong Jzhang, 62 of Berkeley, was traveling eastbound on Hwy 4 at approximately 50 mph. On a curve in the roadway Zhang allowed his vehicle to drift to the right, where it went off the asphalt roadway and onto the soft dirt shoulder.

    After losing control of the vehicle he over corrected back to the left, and the vehicle

Thomas Benjamin Perez, Jr. Arrested in Avery

  On Moran Rd. at the Avery Hotel, CHP arrested Thomas Benjamin Perez, Jr. of Arnold for Driving Under the Influence and Driving with a Suspended License.

   He was booked into the Calaveras County Jail and released with a citation.

Violation of Parole Arrest in Valley Springs

   Emmett Cleveland James, Jr., 35, of Valley Springs, was arrested on Pine Drive in Valley Springs for driving without a license or proof of financial responsibility, both misdemeanors, and violation of parole, a felony.

   The Calaveras County Sheriff's deputy booked James into the Calaveras County Jail.

Suspicious Vehicle in Douglas Flat

   A Deputy Sheriff stopped to check on a suspicious or parked vehicle on Main Street in Douglas Flat Saturday July 28, 2012 at 9:25 PM.

   Randy Jerome Aitken was arrested for driving with a suspended license, obstructing a peace officer, possession of contolled substance paraphernalia, misdemeanors, and possession of an illegal substance, a felony and booked into the Calaveras County Jail.

   He was released after one day due to overcrowding at the jail.

San Andreas Man Arrested

    Blake Richard Aarons II, 26, of San Andreas was arrested for inflicting injury to a spouse or cohabitant, a felony, on Sunday, July 29, 2012.

   The Calaveras County Sheriff's deputy booked him into the County Jail.
  

Kerry Carlton Atkins Arrested in Angels Camp

Kerry Carlton Atkins, 48 of Angels Camp, was arrested on Tuolumne Ave. by Angels Camp Police Department for infliction of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitating person,  on Friday, July 27, 2012.

   He was booked into the Calaveras County Jail.

Mrs. Geraldine Jane Shafer

    Mrs Geraldine Jane Shafer, 7 year resident of Lodi, passed away at Mark Twain Convalescent Hospital on July 27, 2012.  She was 88.

Man Arrested at Cemetery

   A call came in at 9:50 PM on Sunday July 30, 2012, to the Calaveras County Sheriff's Department that a man was yelling  over at the Protestant Cemetery. All they could see was a lit cigarette.

   The Deputy who reponded arrested Cory Lee Smith, 55 of Angels Camp, for disorderly conduct due to alcohol and for an out of county warrant, both misdemeanors.

Panhandler Buys Beer

   A report was made on Sunday, July 30, 2012 to the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office that a panhandler outside the Save-Mart in Angels Camp get money and then comes into the store and buys beer with the change he receives.

Angels Camp Burglary

  A burglary was reported at a residence on Hwy 49 in Angels Camp  on Sunday, July 30, 2012. The Calaveras County Sheriff's Office took the report.

Spousal Abuse Reported in Arnold

  A resident on Tamarack Drive in Arnold reported spousal abuse on Sunday, July 29, 2012. This was apparently in violation of a court order.

"Wreckless" Drivers

  Two "Wreckless" drivers were reported yesterday. One was on Hwy 26 in Valley Springs and the other one was on the water at Comanche Reservoir.

    How fortunate they are to be "wreckless" when they are driving too fast.

Mountain Lion Sightings

   Mountain lion sightings in the county are up, and many people panic and call the Sheriff who notifies Fish and Game.
   Just because you see a mountain lion doesn't mean it's out to get you, especially if its near a creek or other water.  This is a very dry year, and the lions and other critters get thirsty too.
   When you call the Sheriff just because you see one, Fish and Game will send one of their Killers out to get it.  That isn't usually necessary, but they seem to enjoy it.
   Most of these wild creatures only come out at night, but thirst will drive them to expose themselves in daylight. Stay calm. They don't eat people.

William "Bill" Riedel of Murphys

  William "Bill"  John Riedel, of Murphys, passed away at Mark Twain St. Joseph's Hospital in San Andreas on July 23, 2012. He was 78.

  A native of Murphys, he and his parents Buster and Rose Riedel owned and operated Murphys Central Market for 30 years.

Graham Fire in Tuolumne County

  UPDATE:  The Graham fire in Tuolumne County is 81 acres and 95% contained  at 8 AM on July 30, 2012, according to CalFire.

Accident at Moran and Hwy 4 in Avery

   At 5:34 PM on Sunday July 29, 2012, a solo vehicle collision was reported off the road and smoking at Moran and Hwy 4 in Avery.

   The driver was reportedly still in the vehicle as CHP was enroute to the scene. No injuries were reported. A tow truck was dispatched and CalFire was notified.

Assembly Bill 1221 Passed Committee Vote 8-4

    On July 2, 2012, the California Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee held a special hearing specifically to revote on Senate Bill 1221, a bill banning the hunting of black bears and bobcats using hounds, or packs of dogs.

    The Committee passed the bill by a vote of 8 - 4, with one abstention.  Specifically it was 4 Republicans against and 8 Democrats in favor of banning the inhumane practice.

    This issue was brought up at Calaveras County Board of Supervisors and will be on their next agenda. We wait to tell you which Supervisors cast which vote. 

Traffic Accident on Hwy 4 at Boards Crossing

   CHP has had a report of a traffic collision on Hwy 4 at Boards Crossing in Dorrington at 1:33 PM on Sunday July 29, 2012.

   A tow truck was called to the scene. The accident, involving a gold 4 door sedan, is causing a traffic hazard to other vehicles so use caution in the area.

    It is not known at this time if there are any injuries.

Fall from Zip Line in Arnold

     Emergency ambulance was requested at 1:45 PM on Sunday July 29, 2012, for a fall from a Zip Line on El Dorado Drive in Arnold.

   Ebbetts Pass Fire Paramedics are on the scene. The injuries are not clear at this point, but the code over the scanner was Code 4.

Calaveras Democratic Campaign Headquarters Open

  Sharon Romano, Chair of the Democratic Central Committee,  is announcing that the Grand Opening for the Calaveras Democratic Campaign Headquarters in Mokelumne Hill on Saturday July 28, 2012, was a big success.

A Worm in Wilensky's Apple?

Who is Wilensky's # 1 Worm?

Letter to the Editor: About Community Plan

   Dear Editor:
    According to a woman who identified herself only as Jennifer from West Point at a Planning Commission meeting, the people who are claiming they weren't notified,  are wrong. Jennifer is one of the 3 main components of the District 2 Community Plan.

   She said that 6 years or so ago, the County gave she and her District 2 anti-job committee

Pedestrian Causing Hazard

   CHP sent a patrol car at 12:15 PM on July 29, 2012, to check on a report of a hazard  in the  intersection at Hwy 49 and Angels Rd.

   The reporting party says it was an elderly pedestrian in the intersection. Use caution in the area.

Penn Fire In Hills Near Murphys

From the Hwy 4 Bypass in Angels Camp

   UPDATE:  Penn fire is declared 100% contained as of 7 PM July 28, 2012.

Earlier:   Mop up and patrolling the perimeter continues. Demobilization, due to 100% containment of the 330 firefighters is expected today, July 28, 2012.

Now 90% contained as of 7 AM July 28, 2012

 UPDATES BELOW:
  At around 3:25 PM on July 25, 2012 a fire was reported and  CalFire raced to the scene of a brush fire just outside of Murphys, just off Skunk Ranch road and Penn Gulch near Douglas Flat.  Air support, bulldozers and several engines responded.
   
   Both a spotter plane and a tanker were circling the fire on the side of a hill, close enough to see from Hwy 4.

Off Hwy 4 in Murphys.

Cars were parked all along the Hwy taking photos, but it looked like CalFire had a handle on the fire, and were not able to stop the spread.

 UPDATE: 
   As of 10:50 PM 180 acres had burned. Called the Penn Fire, they  reported  15% containment as of this time.

 The Sheriff's Office has just announced that residents who were evacuated may return at 9 PM. The road will remain closed to all others.

  UPDATE:  Although twelve homes were threatened, only one outbuilding has been destroyed.
As of Thursday 7:30 AM, although the air in the Murphys area is smoky, the fire seems to have been totally contained during the night, but the CalFire website shows as of 8:45 AM the fire is 180 acres and 15% contained.  The cause of this fire is still under investigation.

  UPDATE:   As of 6 PM July 26, 2012 CalFire has the Penn Fire  listed as 134 acres and 40% contained.

  UPDATE:  As of 7 AM on July 27, 2012 CalFire reports that the Penn fire is 60 % contained.  Reports from someone driving to work was that they passed 4 truckloads of Corrections and CalFire crews that seemed to be headed up that wasy this morning.

 UPDATE:  As of 7 PM on July 27, 2012 the Penn Fire is 80% contained.

Lay Boards Across Spikes to Get in Exit at Hogan??

   A suspicious vehicle was reported to the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office at 4:12 AM on July 28, 2012 at Fiddleneck on New Hogan Parkway.

  A Deputy responded to find subjects laying down boards across spikes to try and get in the exit.

  No indication of an arrest was shown.

Arrests Made at Ironstone Vineyards

   A Calaveras County Sheriff's Deputy arrested a person at Ironstone Vineyards on Six Mile Road in Murphys at 11:49 PM on July 28, 2012.  The arrest was for Public Intoxication.

   At 12:08 AM another arrest was made for the same thing, Public Intoxication.

Arrest Made on New Hogan Parkway

    A Calaveras County Sheriff's Deputy noticed a suspicious vehicle parked at Wrinkle Cove  on New Hogan Parkway at 7:51 PM on Saturday July 28, 2012 and stopped to check.

   The stop netted an arrest by the officer on an out of county warrant.

Walking Dogs a Traffic Hazard in Murphys

   A call came in to the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office at 4:55 PM on Saturday, July 28, 2012,  about a woman walking 3 dogs down Hwy 4 in Murphys.

   The reporting party says that the woman is allowing the dogs to run onto the Hwy, impeding traffic.

Petty Theft Eaten at Payless Market in Copperopolis

   A petty theft from the Payless Market in Copperopolis was reported to the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office at 1:22 PM on Saturday July 28, 2012.

   Apparently the thief stole and consumed some products from the store. A Deputy responded and took the report. There is no indication of an arrest.

Arrest Made in San Andreas

  A call reporting a family dispute causing a disturbance on Market Street in San Andreas sent a Calaveras County Sheriff's Deputy to the scene at 11:15 AM on July 28, 2012.

   One person was arrested. No other details are available at this time.

Burglary Reported in San Andreas

  A burglary was reported at 10:58 AM on Saturday morning July 28, 2012 on North Main Street in San Andreas.

   Apparently some lawn care equipment had been taken during the night. The Calaveras County Sheriff's Depatment was notified.

Sign Stealing in Murphys

   An ongoing issue on Main Street in Murphys is the stealing of signs. Another one missing was reported to the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office on Saturday, July 28, 2012 at 8:58 AM.

     No indication of a suspect was mentioned at this time.

Vandalism Reported in Valley Springs

  A resident on Berkesey Lane in Valley Springs reported  vandalism to the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office at 8:04 AM on Saturday morning July 28, 2012.

   Someone had entered their vehicle, that nothing was taken, but their stuff was strung all over the driveway.

   The party thought maybe someone had been trying to steal gas.

Distrubance Reported on Pine Drive

   One neighbor on Pine Drive in Arnold called the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office at 7:55 AM on Saturday July 28, 2012 to report another neighbor was using a log splitter this early in the morning.

   Is 7:55 AM really that early?  Depends on what you were doing the night before, we imagine.

Trespassing and Violence at Lake Tulloch?

    One of the resident neighbors of the Lake Tulloch Resort came to the Board of Supervisors to complain about the trespassing, noise, drinking and violence that he has to endure due to the parties at the Resort on weekends.

    The Supervisors do plan to pass a noise ordinance, and Tryon mentioned an administrative use permit, but the homeowner says this has gone on for a long time and nothing changes.

What is Noise to One....

Truck Runs Off Hwy 4 at Highland Lake

    A pickup reportedly ran off the road and hit a tree at Hwy 4 and Highland Lake just before midnight on Saturday, July 28. 2012.

   The truck was stuck, being held up by a tree when CHP arrived. A tow truck was called. No injuries were reported.

Fire at Beaver Creek Campground/Big Trees

  A fire was just reported at Beaver Creek Campground in Big Trees State Park. CalFire in enroute to the location off of Hwy 4 at 4:50 PM on July 28, 2012.
   UPDATE:  Air support was just requested at 5:10 PM.
  We will continue to update as information becomes available.

UPDATE:  CalFire believes they have a handle on fire and can limit spread to an acre or two. Some engines were returned to base at 6:30 PM July 28, 2012.

Accident on Hwy 4 and Reed's Turnpike in Copperopolis

   A traffic accident was reported on Hwy4 at Reed's Turnpike in Copperopolis.

   CHP is enroute at 5 PM on July 28, 2012. It is unknown if there are any injuries at this time.

Wave-Runner Accident at Lake Tulloch Resort

   At 3:45 PM on July 28, 2012 an accident was reported at Lake Tulloch Resort.

   Paramedics were called to treat someone for head injuries received in a wave-runner accident. No other details were available at this time.

KIva Ct. Bottled Up and Blocking Traffic

  Residents are reporting to CHP that Kiva Court and Fong Drive in Copperopolis, Lake Tulloch, have become a traffic hazard, starting at 1:10 PM July 28, 2012.

  Apparently multiple vehicles and boat trailers are blocking the entire street. This is the usual for weekends at Lake Tulloch.

   CHP is enroute to check out the problem.

Disturbance Leads to Arrest in Valley Springs

    A Calaveras County Sheriff's Deputy initiated activity at The Range, on Quail Oaks Rd in Valley Springs at 2:37 AM on July 28, 2012, led to an arrest.

    No other details are known at this time.

Gunshots Reported in Jenny Lind

    A resident at Kirby St and Jenny LInd Rd. in Jenny Lind reported hearing illegal shooting to the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office around 1:18 AM on July 28, 2012.

 No suspect was located.

Assault Reported in San Andreas

    It was reported at around 9 PM on July 27, 2012 that a physical altercaltion had taken place on Hope Ct in San Andreas. The resident stated that it was Assault with a Deadly Weapon. Soon after two calls of a disturbance on Hope Ct also came in to the Sheriff's Office.

   The Calaveras County Sheriff's Office took the report. Ir is unknown if there is a suspect at this time.

Gunshots Reported in Copperopolis

  A resident on Arrowhead Street in Copperopolis reported hearing a rifle shot in the area around 5 PM on July 27, 2012.

  No suspect was discovered at the time.

Gas Stolen at Mokelumne Hill Sierra Trading Post

    Petty theft was reported at the Sierra Trading Post on Hwy 49 in Mokelumne HIll on July 27, 2012.  A vehicle with a boat had filled both tanks and left when the station discoved the debit card didn't go through.

Burglary of Tools at Red Hill Dump

   A burglary was reported to the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office on July 27, 2012 at 8:30 AM.

   Tools had been  stolen during a breakin which had apparently taken place during the night.

   A deputy took the report. No obvious suspects were known at that time.

Update on the Blue Tarp Death Threats!

   Coming soon, an Update on the person who threatened death to the writer of an article they didn't like, attempting to scare or "coerce" them into being quiet isn't going to work.

   We are going to expose this person to you. This person has claimed to law enforcement that it was just a joke after we printed the story that we were turning them in.

   We have discovered that this creep has also threatened many others, mostly women, and it's time this person faced the consequences.

   We also believe its time the California State Attorney General was notified of the attempted coercion of a newspaper, a class D felony.
   Coming soon!!!

Five Arrests After Compliance Search

    On Friday, July 27, 2012 at 7:30 AM, investigators from the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office conducted a probation compliance check on Eric Gabriel Sosa (34) of San Andreas at a residence on the 300 block of Russell Road in San Andreas.

     Suspect Sosa, along with Leah Ruth Robitaille (29) of Burson, Curtis John Kesterson (33) of Burson, Jason Wesley Andahl (28) of Mokelumne Hill, and Amber Hawthorne (30) of San Andreas, were ultimately arrested at the scene.

Letter to the Editor about Hunting

   Dear Sierra Sentinel:
     

Give the animals an equal chance
with guns and then call it a sport!

      I read your article about bear hunters, and I have strong opinions on hunting

  .  I am not a hunter, but I have relatives who do hunt, nearly anything they can. They would hunt dogs and cats if they could get away with it, and sometimes do.

Traffic Accident at Big Trees

   CHP has just reported a traffic accident at Hwy 4 and Big Trees Village Dr. It was reported as a rollover.

   CHP responded and reported at 11:45 AM on July 27, 2012 that a recreational vehicle had rolled over, but that there were no injuries.

   A tow truck was dispatched to the scene, as the vehicle is still on its side. Use caution in the area, until the tow truck clears the area.

Ban on Using Dogs to Hunt Bears SB 1221

Disgusting--this is not hunting--this
is torture and murder

    In what most humane people see as only the right thing to do, including the Humane Society of the United States, Senate Bill 1221 will ban hunting bear using packs of dogs. During the Calaveras Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, July 24, 2012, Joe Duncan, a hunter,  and Melinda Hoff, a C-21 realtor speaking as a private citizen from Copperopolis, (see UPDATE below)  both asked the Board to oppose the bill.

     Hoff stated how her whole family has many dogs (see UPDATE below) and how wonderful bear hunting with dogs was.

Betty Jane Walters

     Betty Jane (Meister Goodwin) Walters, of San Andreas, passed away on July 14, 2012 at Mark Twain Convalescent Home after a brief illness.
'
    Mrs. Walters was the widow of John Julian Walters, Sr. She was born June 23, 1923 in Brooklyn, New York to the late Ruth (Meyer) and Louis F. Meister, M.D.

Rock Slide on Murphys Grade Road

Rock slides on Murphys Grade Road
ususally occur in the rainy season.

  CHP is reporting a rock slide on Murphys Grade Road as of 7:30 AM Friday, July 27, 2012, so be cautious if you drive that route to work.

   Probably better to take Hwy 4 from Ebbetts Pass or Murphys if you are headed down the hill.

UPDATE:  The rock slide has been cleared

UPDATE on Fire Engine Injury Accident at Hwy 4 and Skunk Ranch Road

   Due to the number of vehicles and people out of their vehicles standing on the road, a fireman, Nathan Fyock, of Modesto,  standing near a vehicle attempting to respond to the fire on Skunk Ranch, was struck by 2002 Mazda Miata driven by Kirsten Vader of Murphys, at around 4:30 PM on July 25, 2012.

Grand Theft Reported at Murphys Chevron

   A wallet was reportedly stolen at the Murphys Chevron Station in Murphys on July 25, 2012 around 9:40 AM.

   The log does not indicate if they have a suspect.

Copperopolis Man Arrested

   At approximately 9:20 AM in July 25, 2012, Calaveras sheriff's deputies responded to a call at R Triple C, where they arrested James Francis Leigh, Jr. (32) of Copperopolis.

   Mr. Leigh was allegedly Obstructing a Public Officer, in Contempt of a Protective Order, and committing Battery on a non-chohabitating spouse, all misdemeanors.

  Leigh was booked into the Calaveras County Jail.

Angels Camp City Council Has Three Seats Up For Grabs in November, 2012

     The Angels Camp City Council has three seats up for grabs this November.
   Mayor Elaine Morris has filed her papers to run for another term.

   Two other seats were filled by appointment in the last year. Both Scott Behiel and Roger Neuman will have to be elected in November if they choose to run.

As of July 26, 2012, neither has officially filed at the County.  The cutoff date for anyone wanting to run for City Council in August 10, 2012.

          

Calaveras Council of Governments (COG) Meets Aug. 1, 2012

    The Calaveras Council of Governments meets August 1, 2012 at 6:30 PM in the Board of Supervisors Chambers in San Andreas.

   On the agenda is Approving the Award of a Professional Service Contract for the Ebbetts Pass National scenic Byway corridor Management Plan Project.

   And everyone thought that Callaway was no longer in control of COG?

   There are several other Resolutions on the agenda, but they write them in such ridiculous code so that no one can tell what is getting money and what is not.

   The meetings are open to the public.

    

Plan B performs for Calaveras Arts in West Point on August 15, 2012

                     Calaveras Arts Music in the Parks

Plan B performs for Calaveras Arts in West Point on August 15, 2012

Local favorites and "Best Band" for five years running, Plan B, performs on August 15 at West Point Elementary School.  Music begins at 6:30p and ends at 8:00p.

Jim Bailey, and brothers Keno and Vince Rojas make up Plan B band.  Jim plays drums, Keno is on guitar, and Vince plays base. 

George Fry Running For Yet Another Office?

    George Fry, who has run for elective office many times in Calaveras County without success, has moved to Copperopolis and now wants to run for the Mark Twain Healthcare District Board?
    When the story broke about his having driven a mentally disabled woman to San Diego and then

Chamber Mixer on Thursday, July 26, 2012

   The Resource Connection and the Calaveras Council of Governments (COG) will host a Mixer this Thursday, July 26, 2012 in their office at 444 West St. Charles Street  (Hwy 49) in San Andreas.

    The Mixer starts at 5:30 PM and is open to all local business people.  Appetizers and Local Wines will be served.  Mixers are a great way to meet people and network. Please join us.   

    For more information, contact the Chamber at 754-5400.

Rico Oller on $54 Million Surplus

    In a statement by Rico Oller regarding the California State Department of Parks and Recreations $54 million surplus, he adamantly demands an answer as to why the State of California has been threatening to close parks throughout the state.

Narcotics Arrest in Murphys

   Patrick Steven Lyle, 20, of Arnold, was arrested at Hwy 4 and Appleblossom Rd in Murphys on July 24, 2012 for alleged  11352 A HS Transporting with Intent to Sell Narcotics/Controlled Substance, 11360 A HS Sell Marijuana and 1320 B PC Failure to Appear of a Felony Charge, all felonies,  on Warrant # A120566.

   Lyle was booked into the Calaveras County Jail by a  Calaveras County Sheriff's Deputy.

Suspicion Turns to Arrest in Railroad Flat

       A Calaveras County Sheriff's Deputy saw something suspicious at Railroad Flat Elementary School Tuesday, July 24, 2012, and stopped to investigate.

     Arrested on a local warrant for alleged Controlled Substance Paraphernalia was Michael Lee Hogan, 42 of Railroad Flat.

   Hogan was booked into the Calaveras County Jail and then released on his own recognizance.

CalFire Trucks at Murphys Motel

   We've had reports that there are several CalFire engines parked at the Murphys Inn Motel this morning, July 25, 2012.

   Although we are not aware of any local fires making it necessary to call in outside units, we are checking to see why they are staying in Murphys.

  

Traffic Accident in Mokelumne Hill Area

   CHP has received report of a traffic accident on Central Hill Road in Mokelumne Hill around 8:50 PM.  Two units have been assigned and Cal Fire has been alerted. An ambulance has been requested.

    A suburban is off the road into the ditch just beyond a dead deer in the road.
   The reporting party thinks there is something to do with an x-ray and an arrest that is related to this traffic accident.

Plea to Return Lapidary Supplies Stolen

    The Sentinel has received a plea from the family of their 90 year old great-grandparent who had  lapidary supplies stolen in Murphys. 

   Under the story "Petty Theft Reported in Murphys" you will see their comments.

   We agree that stealing from the elderly is the lowest of the lows. Return the sentimental items, please, no questions asked.

   If you know anything, please help the family get the items returned.

Altaville Schoolhouse Lecture

     The Angels Camp Museum will present as part of their lecture series a special lecture on the history of the Altaville Schoolhouse at the schoolhouse site.

   The Altaville Schoolhouse is believed to be the oldest surviving schoolhouse in California.  The one-room schoolhouse was built in 1858

Fire in Copperopolis 100% Contained

    The "Gopher" Fire, which started on Gopher Ridge in Copperopolis burned 75 acres but was declared  100% contained earlier today July 24, 2012.

   Many other lightning caused fires (16) in El Dorado/Amador Counties are now 90% contained at 79 acres.

   There were a total of 2800 confirmed lightning strikes in Northern California and 73 fires started as a result.

Vehicle Vandalism in Valley Springs

   A resident on Heinemann Drive in Valley Springs reported to the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office that there had been vandalism done to a vehicle on July 23, 2012.

    The Sheriff's Deputy took the report. No suspects were listed in the Sheriff's log.

Gunshots Reported in Camp Connell

    A resident called the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office to report the sounds of illegal gunshots in the area of Shoshone Drive in Camp Connell.

    There is no indication that the deputy was able to locate the shooters.

Petty Theft Reported in Murphys

   A resident on Cedar Vista Drive in Murphys reported that lapidary supplies had been stolen from the front yard.

   No indication of the party knowing who stole the supplies was given in the report.

Bear bothering Peacocks in Sheep Ranch

      The Calaveras County Sheriff's Department got a report of a bear BOTHERING a residents' peacocks at night on Sheep Ranch Road in Sheep Ranch. The report does NOT indicate that the bear was eating the peacocks.

   The caller was put through to Fish and Game, and we know what they love to do, KILL!

   Instead, if the resident would lock her fowls up a night in a secure location, they won't be BOTHERED, and the bear will look elsewhere for entertainment.

Invitation to Mokelumne Hill Town Hall Celebration

Hit and Run Accident in Arnold

   Monday July 23, 2012 at around 7:30 PM a hit and run traffic accident was reported to CHP at Hwy 4 and Fir Drive in Arnold.

   The victim is reportedly in front of Big Trees Market and the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office is on scene investigating.  No injuries were reported in the accident.

Arrest in Arnold for DUI, Hit and Run

    Paul Joseph Flynn, (52) of Arnold, was arrested for DUI, Alcohol or Drugs, DUI Alcohol Over .08 Percent and Hit and Run Property Damage, all misdemeanors,  on July 23, 2012 around 9 PM near his home on Meadowview. 

Arrest for First Degree Burglary

   Crystal Alicia Clark (23)  of West Point, was arrested on Gold Hunter Road on July 23, 2012, for First Degree Burglary, and Conspiracy to Commit a Crime, both felonies, and Petty theft, a misdemeanor.

   Calaveras County Sheriff's deputies booked Clark into the Calaveras County Jail.

Narcotics Arrest in Valley Springs

    Richard Joseph Arreola,  (26) of Valley Springs, was arrested at McAtee and Redmond on July 23, 2012, for Possession of a Narcotic, a Controlled Substance, a felony, and for Controlled Substance Paraphernalia, and Disorderly Conduct: Acohol, both misdemeanors.

    He was booked into the Calaveras County Jail by deputies and released on bond.

Trouble at the Red Brick Saloon in San Andreas

    Just before midnight on Friday, July 20, 2012, a call came in to the Calaveras County Sheriff's Department that a white male was seen walking toward the Red Brick Saloon carrying a chain.

    At that time nothing was done, but less than an hour later, another call came into the Sheriff that a physical altercation had taken place resulting in injuries.

Michael John Yurich

    Michael John Yurich of Murphys, passed away Thursday afternoon July 19th. Michael was ill for the past 2 to 5 years with ALS.

    He was totally bedridden over the last several months when the disease quickly entered his throat and lung area. He was 55 years old.

Board Of Supervisors Meets Tuesday, July 24 at 9 AM

   You will be able to attend a Calaveras County Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday, July 24, 2012 at 9 AM, but you will only be allowed to speak if all of the Supervisors department heads and friends around the county don't take up the only 1/2 hour the public is now given at the beginning of the meetings.

  Tofanelli, Tryon and Wilensky are very nervous and have tough run-off

Public Access Not Free Anymore!

   Public Access TV Goes Down the Tubes

 The Calaveras County Board of Supervisors are planning to approve a resolution to start charging for classes on Public Access TV

Calaveras County Board of Supervisors meets Tuesday July 24, 2012 at 9 AM

 Tobacco Money Goes Up in Smoke?

 On the Tuesday, July 24, 2012 agenda is the annual acceptance of the tobacco money that comes into the county, approximately $37.000 per quarter. 

    Where is this money going now? Was it signed off to pay interest on a loan the Supervisors have? Will anyone in the audience have the presence of mind to ask?  We'll see.

Book Review - Author Dennis Dooley Writes: A Hard Ride

Featured At
 Amazon.com and
at many local stores.

   One of the biggest challenges facing biographers who venture into telling the stories of the past is getting input from the person themselves - most of whom are no longer with us. Angels Camp resident Dennis Dooley has accomplished a difficult task admirably.

Mules Missing

   Two mules were reported missing on Comanche Parkway in Burson. The Calaveras County Sheriff's Office was notified.

   It is not known if a search party was established, or if the mules were found.

No Camping!

   The Lakemont Pines Homeowners Association reported someone camping on their property on Lakewood Drive in Arnold.

     It seems that unauthorized camping on private property is frowned upon by the Lakemont Homeowners. The Calaveras County Sheriff's Office responded.

Twins Booked for Battery--on Each Other?

    Roseanne and Roxanne Valentine, 55, of Arnold, were arrested and booked and then cited and released for Battery on each other by Calaveras County Sheriff's deputies.

Shots Heard on Arnold Rim Trail

   What was believed to be a beautiful and safe place for people to hike in Ebbetts Pass, may not be so safe after all.

   A report was received by the Calaveras Sheriff's Department that a hiker could hear shots being fired while on the trail near White Pines.

   No one was discovered but the hiker remained very nervous.

San Ramon Man Arrested on Poole Station Road.

      Officers responded to a report of a disturbance in a motor home pulled over on the side of the road on Poole Station Rd.

   Gianni Peter Passakos, 40 of San Ramon was arrested by Calaveras County Sheriff's Deputies on Poole Station road for Possession of a Narcotic Controlled Substance, Possession of a controlled Substance, both felonies, and Evading a Peace Officer, having Controlled Substance Paraphernalia, and DUI Alcohol or drugs, three misdemeanors.

    Passakos was booked into the Calaveras County Jail but was released after one day due to over capacity in the jail.

Arrest in Valley Springs for Disorderly Conduct

   Michael Alan Brady, 39, of Valley Springs,  was arrested for disorderly conduct : Alcohol and possession of marijuana over 28.5 grams, both misdemeanors.

    The arrest took place on Hogan and Acorn in East Valley Springs.  Brady was cited and released.

Heather Van Natta Arrested in Angels Camp

     Heather Van Natta, 36, of Angels Camp was arrested at 314 South Main St Space 178 on Sunday July 22, 2012.

     Angels Camp Police Department arrested Van Natta for battery with intent to do serious bodily injury and Infliction of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant, both felonies.

    Van Natta was booked into the Calaveras County Jail.

Fire on Manuel Mill Rd in Arnold

    At around 4:45 PM on Satuday, July 21, 2012, a fire was reported on Manual Mill Road in Arnold. Units from Arnold, Murphys, West Point and Columbia Air responded to the fire, which was quickly extinguished with damage to about 1/2 acre of woodland vegetation.

   The cause of the fire is still undetermined.

A Little Thunderstorm

   Residents of much of the county were treated to a loud thunderstorm with lightning and rain overnight. The upper parts of the County, about Murphys didn't see any rain, but Angels Camp had quite a cloudburst after 9 PM on Sunday, July 22, 2012.

   Many fire officials were glad to see the fire danger dampened for a few days.

Fire in Yolo County

    Good news this morning. FCalFire reports that a fire which began around !0:15 AM Saturday, July 21, 2012, near Guinda, is 95% contained at 520 acres.

    The cause is under investigation.

Traffic Hazard Reported on Comanche Parkway

   A CHP unit has been assigned to respond to a report of a hazard in the roadway on Comanche Parkway and Chile Camp Rd, outside of Wallace at 6:45 PM on Sunday July 22, 2012.

   When we receive information as to what the hazard is we will post it.

  

Traffic Accident on Hogan Dam Road

     A traffic accident on the 3200 block of Hogan Dam Road, involving a green pickup pulling a boat that hit a tree was reported on Sunday July 22, 2012 in Valley Springs.

    CHP responded and called a tow truck around 6:20 PM.  It is unknown at this time if there are any injuries. Be cautious in that area.

Are You Hot? Here's one Way to Get a Pool!

Traffic Collision on Hwy 49 at Thirteen Curves

    Around 3:15 PM on Sunday July 22, 2012, an accident was reported on Hwy 49 at Thirteen Curves on the Calaveras County side of the river.
  The vehicle involved is a fully dressed Harley Davidson Motorcycle.

   An ambulance has been dispatched to the scene and CHP is on the scene. One way traffic is in place at this time.

Wilensky Says Sexually Transmitted Diseases Are Caused by Lack of County Health Nurses?

We agree  that  this
nurse, standing between
a couple, could prevent STD's

    In one of the strangest of the hundreds of "sermons on the mount" by Supervisor Steve Wilensky, he stated, among other things, that he wants to fund the County Health Department more because our children are getting STD's (sexually transmitted diseases).

   What used to be believed was being caused by having sex,

Accident at Hwy 49 and Prospect in Jackson

   A traffic accident was reported around 10:30 AM at Hwy 49 and Prospect Rd in Jackson. No injuries were reported.

    A gray KIA Optima apparently ran off the roadway. A tow truck was dispatched. Use caution if driving in that area.

Fulsom Costco Employee Arrested for Placer County Fire

    Brian Mason, a Fulsom Costco employee, was arrested at his job location as the one person suspected as    starting the "Robbers" fire, which blackened 2600 acres near the towns of Colfax and Forestview.

Grand Theft Reported on Manuel Rd in Arnold

    The Calaveras County Sheriff's Office was notified of a Grand Theft in Arnold on Saturday, July 21, 2012. The  theft allegedly occurred on Manuel Rd.

   No suspects have been arrested, and we have no further details at this time.

"Can I have some money for gas?"

      A resident on Sandalwood in Murphys called the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office to report a man came to the door and asked for gas money.

      This is similar to a suspicious circumstance that occurred in Valley Springs. Be cautious of anyone who comes to the door. They may be checking to see if you are home.

Vandalism in Valley Springs

   A report of vandalism was received by the Calaveras County Sheriff's Department on Saturday, July 21, 2012 on Vista Del Lago in Valley Springs.

     The Stone sign to the subdivision was damaged. At this time it is not known if there are any suspects.

Burglary at Calaveras HIgh School

   A burglary that had been committed during the previous night was discovered at Calaveras High School in San Andreas on Saturday, July 21, 2012.

     No further information was available, and it is no known if the suspects are known.

   

Gunshots Fired

   Several reports of illegal gunshots fired were received on Saturday, July 21, 2010 by the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office.

     One was on Hwy 26 in west Point around 11:30 AM, and another around the same time on Shoshone Dr. in Camp Connell.

   Later on, around 3 PM a report of around 20 illegal rounds of gunshots was reported at Big Trees Village Recreation Center on Sierra Parkway in Dorrington and then again on Pay Dirt Ct around 8 PM, saying either guns or fireworks were shot off.

  No arrests were made in any of the reported cases.

Murphys Sanitary Board Chair Wants Agenda Items Removed..chuckle, chuckle!

Murphys Sanitary District Customers
might as well use these, since they
admit sewer lines leak into the soil.

   One of the many shocking things that happen during a Murphys Sanitary District Board meeting is strange or discouraging comments made by the board Chair, Pat Davies. Does she

Remembering the Victims of the Aurora, Colorado Shooting

Remembering the Victims of the Aurora, Colorado Shooting

President Obama honors the victims of the tragedy in Colorado, those who knew and loved them, and those who are struggling to recover.

Watch President Obama's weekly address:

Gunshots Fired Reported in Big Trees Village

     A report of gunshots heard in big Trees Village on Teton Rd and Karock in Dorrington was received by the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office around 10 PM on Friday, July 20, 2012.

    Unfortunately this is an all too common occurrence in Ebbetts Pass, and from what we are told, most of it goes unreported because the public feels the Sheriff either cannot or will not do anything about it.